DEFENDER Lawrence Greenhalgh is nursing a broken jaw after being punched in the face during Radcliffe Borough's match last Saturday.

The 25-year-old player was involved in an incident with Farsley Celtic's Ian Blackstone during the second half of the UniBond League clash in Leeds and fell unconscious to the ground.

He was given extensive treatment both on and off the pitch and was later driven by colleague Tony Cullen to Manchester's Hope Hospital where it was determined he had a broken jaw. He had stitches inserted above and below his eye.

After resting this week at his Walkden home, to allow time for bruising and swelling to subside, the Boro man is due to go to Manchester Royal Hospital tomorrow where he faces the possibility of surgery. He has made a statement regarding the incident to police and is considering taking out a private summons for assault. And on Tuesday night manager Kevin Glendon organised further statements at a training session from Boro players who witnessed the incident. "I didn't see the incident myself as I was watching the progress of the ball but I haven't seen such facial injuries in all my years in the game," said a shocked Glendon. "I know what damage an elbow can do, but this is something else."

Greenhalgh will be missing for several weeks and that further stretches Boro's playing resources as they bid to stay in the First Division promotion chase.

Another central defender, Jeff Parker, underwent minor knee surgery on Tuesday, David Bean has had a scan and is likely to need an operation on his knee, while the sidelined Jason Astley is improving, but needs a final diagnosis before he resumes full training again.

It is all a bit of a nightmare for Boro, but one bright spot is the signing of former Oldham Athletic player Richard Battersby following a closed-doors trial match at Stainton Park. He is 20-years-old and operates on the right side of defence and midfield.

Meanwhile, the search for possible loan players continues as the club prepares to face Saturday's opponents Netherfield Kendal with supporters reminded the kick-off is at noon to allow fans to get home to watch the televised Scotland v England international.

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